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Hungary's Foreign Minister Undermines EU Sanctions on Russia

4/1/2026

Summary

Szijjártó Undermines Sanctions

An investigation based on audio recordings shows Hungary's Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó undermining EU sanctions on Russia.
Szijjártó coordinated with Russian officials, including Sergey Lavrov, to remove Gulbahor Ismailova from sanctions lists.
He shared sensitive EU discussions with Moscow, raising concerns about Hungary's loyalty within the EU.
Hungary vetoed recent sanctions packages.
The episode has intensified tensions with Ukraine and raised questions about Hungary's EU security role.

Summary

Hungary, Slovakia Challenge Sanctions

Hungary and Slovakia have used their EU leverage to push for the removal of certain Russian individuals from sanctions, arguing for delisting on political rather than legal grounds.
They have repeatedly submitted lists of names, including Gülbahor Ismailova, Mikhail Degtiarov, and Veaceslav Mose Kantor, to support their demand.
In February 2026, Hungary vetoed a sanctions package, and Slovakia threatened to block renewal unless Usmanov and Fridman were removed.

History

Historical Context

In 2026, Hungary's Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó vetoed EU sanctions against Russia, reflecting Hungary's historical struggle to balance EU obligations with national interests. This decision followed Hungary's collaboration with Russian officials, including Sergey Lavrov, and raises concerns about EU unity. Since 2010, Hungary has faced scrutiny over democratic backsliding, complicating its relationship with the EU and impacting collective security efforts.

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Szijjártó Undermines Sanctions

An investigation based on audio recordings shows Hungary's Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó undermining EU sanctions on Russia.
Szijjártó coordinated with Russian officials, including Sergey Lavrov, to remove Gulbahor Ismailova from sanctions lists.
He shared sensitive EU discussions with Moscow, raising concerns about Hungary's loyalty within the EU.
Hungary vetoed recent sanctions packages.
The episode has intensified tensions with Ukraine and raised questions about Hungary's EU security role.

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